Are you craving a hearty, satisfying meal that combines the rustic charm of German cuisine with the ultimate comfort of a warm soup? Look no further! This Lentil Soup with Frankfurters is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that will transport you straight to a cozy German kitchen. Packed with protein-rich lentils, savory frankfurters, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is the perfect blend of nutrition and flavor that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: German
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 frankfurters, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and onions become translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the vegetable mixture and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Sprinkle paprika into the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Add sliced frankfurters to the soup and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the frankfurters are heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips
- Lentil Selection: Use fresh, high-quality dried lentils and always rinse them thoroughly to remove any debris.
- Vegetable Prep: Dice your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Sautéing Technique: Take your time when sautéing vegetables - this builds a rich flavor foundation for your soup.
- Broth Matters: Use a good quality chicken broth for deeper flavor; homemade is best, but a high-quality store-bought version works well too.
- Seasoning Secrets: Add paprika towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
- Consistency is Key: If the soup becomes too thick, don't hesitate to add a little more broth to reach your desired texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream to add a fresh, creamy finish to your soup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg
